The oldest known Past Master's Symbol consists of the Compass, Sun,
Square and Quadrant. This is the most popular Past Master's Jewel
used in the United States.
The earliest written evidence that a Past Master's jewel in this form was
used can be found in an exposť of Masonry published in April of 1760
entitled Three Distinct Knocks which said , "The Pass Master Hath the
Compasses and Sun with a Line of Cords About his Neck."

This symbol includes the Square to remind us that it is by the
Square that the wearer governed his lodge as Master. The Quadrant shows
what angle the Compass is opened at. This is appropriate for the
symbol of a Past Master because it is by the Compass that the Freemason
keeps himself within due bounds of all mankind. And it is the role
of the Worshipful Master to ensure that all members of his lodge, and all
Regular Masons living within his lodge's jurisdiction, are making proper
use of their moral compass. It also generally shows that the Compass
is opened to the angle of 60 degrees. This is significant because 60
degrees is the angle of an equilateral triangle. The equilateral
triangle represents perfect balance, as all sides are of equal length, and
the triangle appears the same from all directions. It therefore
teaches that the man who wears this jewel has learned the lessons of
Freemasonry and lives a balanced life. It also shows that the wearer
of this jewel has served equally in the South, the West, and the East.

The Sun is used in this symbol to represent that the wearer has
observed the sun at 1) its meridian height in the South, 2) its setting in
the West and 3) its rising in the East. The Sun also represents
light and it is understood that the Past Master of a Craft Lodge is a
source of Masonic Light to his brothers. It closely shares the
meaning of the Pentalpha in Masonic symbolism and has on occasion been
interchanged with it. Thus, it is also appropriate to say that the Sun
represents perfect light. vi

It is of interest to note that the Grand Lodge of Scotland uses this
symbol as their Past Master's Jewel without the Sun.

The Compass, Sun and Quadrant

In several jurisdictions, especially in the
United States, the Past Master's Symbol
consists of the Compass, Sun and Quadrant. The meaning of the
Compass and Sun are the same as in the symbol described above. However,
this symbol is unique as it can also be understood to be a sextant.

A sextant is a tool of navigation used to measure altitude and
enable one to determine his location and thus plot a course to travel.
This is a very appropriate symbol for a Past Master as he has had to
navigate the course of his lodge during his Eastern tenure. It also shows
that he is capable of assisting in the navigation of the lodge, if his
successors may request his assistance.